By ALAN PERROTT
Violence is a shameful fact of life and those whom children trust most have to learn that resorting to the belt is never acceptable, says New Zealand's fourth Commissioner for Children.
Dr Cindy Kiro, appointed yesterday, works for Massey University as associate professor and director of the
Waiora Centre for Public Health Research. She replaces Roger McClay.
Her published research papers leave no doubt that she largely blames recent Governments, particularly those straddling the 80s and 90s, for the social and economic conditions that make her new position necessary. Dr Kiro, 45, knows that "violence against children must stop" is an easy message to preach, but convincing parents and caregivers they are the bad guys dishing it out is not.
She has worked as a social worker, research director, public health manager and lecturer.
Announcing the appointment, Social Development and Employment Minister Steve Maharey said: "Cindy Kiro's breadth of experience and ability to work with people from all backgrounds - from children living in many different settings to international academics - make her well suited to manage the complex and sensitive issues that will come before her."
As commissioner, Dr Kiro will be able to carry out her own inquiries, act as guardian for the rights and interests of all under-16s and keep watch on the work of Child, Youth and Family.
She relishes the challenge ahead, but the mother of two said it was a difficult decision to move away from her family.
Becoming commissioner means leaving the family in Te Atatu and commuting to Wellington for four or five days a week.
Dr Cindy Kiro - Career
1995-2000 Senior lecturer in social policy at Massey University Albany.
2000-2002 Senior manager at Auckland District Health Board.
2002-2003 Associate professor and director of Waiora Centre for Public Health Research.
Government Boards
Acting chair, Public Health Advisory Committee (2001-2003).
National Health Committee (2001-2003).
Casino Control Authority (2001-2003).
Maori Health Research Committee (2001-2003).
Child Policy Reference Group (2000-2002).
